Effects of Training on the Execution of Complete-Arch Scans. Part 2: Scanning Accuracy
Moritz Waldecker, Stefan Rues, Charlotte Theresa Trebing, Rouven Behnisch, Peter Rammelsberg, Wolfgang Bömicke
Abstract
Moritz Waldecker, Dr Med Dent/Stefan Rues, Dipl-Ing/Charlotte Trebing, Dr Med Dent/Rouven Behnisch, MSc/Peter Rammelsberg, Prof Dr Med Dent/Wolfgang Bömicke, PD Dr Med Dent, MSc: Purpose: To investigate the effect of training on scanning accuracy of complete arch scans (CAS) performed by first-time users, with a distinction made between specific training (repeated performance of CAS) and nonspecific training (simple use of an intraoral optical scanner for a sextant scan in the context of a CAD/CAM teaching module). Materials and Methods: A total of 36 students with no experience in intraoral scanning were randomized into three groups (n = 12 per group) according to the number of CAS sessions: three sessions (3S), two sessions (2S), and one session (1S). Each student had to perform 10 CAS per scanning session. Sessions were scheduled at T<sub>0</sub>, T<sub>1</sub>, and T<sub>2</sub> for group 3S; at T<sub>0</sub> and T<sub>2</sub> for group 2S; and at T<sub>2</sub> for group 1S. Before the final scanning session in each group (ie, the first scanning session in group 1S), the students completed a CAD/CAM teaching module, which included fabrication of a monolithic crown in a fully digital chairside workflow. Results: In all groups, repeated CAS resulted in improved scanning accuracy. Participation in the CAD/CAM module had a positive effect on initial accuracy for CAS. Mean absolute deviations in cross-arch distance were 84 μm (T<sub>0</sub>), 68 μm (T<sub>1</sub>), and 63 μm (T<sub>2</sub>) for group 3S; 79 μm (T<sub>0</sub>) and 61 μm (T<sub>2</sub>) for group 2S; and 67 μm (T<sub>2</sub>) for group 1S. Conclusion: To perform CAS with the best possible accuracy, specific training is highly recommended. In addition, nonspecific training leads to an improvement in initial scanning accuracy.